Add any of their amazing sides--truffle sabayon (a frothy custard), herb parmesan risotto, sweet potato puree, green peppercorns and au gratin or sea salt baked potatoes, among others--and you have a dining experience made in heaven.

COTTON ROW

The piece de resistance was our last saunter of the evening to Cotton Row, set in a building along the cotton exchange built in 1821 and offering true Southern hospitality "inspired by the enduring passion of the cotton traders who once worked in downtown Huntsville."

The highlight here for special occasions is dining in the cellar, a cavernous yet intimate space that houses the restaurant's collection of nearly 5,000 bottles and 300 different selections of wine, which are expertly paired with your multicourse dinner.

Regardless of whether you dine in the cellar or in the delightful main dining room, the cuisine here is simply remarkable. Seasonal creations made with products of unsurpassed quality take center stage, so each time you come, you will find another new twist on a classic or a more contemporary dish. A cornmeal-crusted oyster salad or grilled hearts of romaine lettuce with chicken or shrimp are among the appetizer options.